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US Military Deploys Space Weapon Into Orbit
15 Sep
Summary
- US Air Force acknowledges deployment of space weapons.
- Weapons are designed to defend against adversary actions.
- Deployment occurs amid concerns of rival space capabilities.
The U.S. military has, for the first time, publicly confirmed the deployment of weapons into Earth's orbit. U.S. Air Force Secretary Troy Meink stated that these on-orbit space control weapons are capable of defending the Joint Force against hostile adversary actions.
While specific details regarding the nature, function, or quantity of these deployed weapons were not disclosed, the phrasing of the announcement was reportedly deliberate. This acknowledgment follows ongoing international concerns about rival nations developing advanced space capabilities.
Specifically, China has long been suspected of operating spacecraft with potential destructive capabilities against other satellites. Furthermore, the U.S. Space Force has indicated that Russia is currently developing a satellite purportedly designed to carry a nuclear weapon. Historically, the U.S. has disavowed the destruction of satellites due to the risk of creating harmful debris in orbit.
